In February 2021, the city of Jackson experienced severe flooding due to heavy rain and rising water levels in the North Fork of the Kentucky River. This flooding affected homes in the Lakeside Estates community, as well as a hospital, doctor’s offices, a nursing home, and schools. To reduce future flood risks, this $5.9 million Kentucky Transportation Cabinet project aimed to strengthen the Panbowl Lake dam with a vertical wall along KY 15. Concerns grew in July 2022 when record flooding occurred during the project’s bidding phase. However, the project ultimately provided relief to local residents, businesses, and schools by ensuring the dam’s reliability during future floods. It also protected KY 15, a crucial route with over 12,000 vehicles daily, linking southeastern Kentucky with central parts of the state. This project helps maintain travel continuity during major flooding events. The KY 15 improvements will be integrated into a major widening project scheduled to begin in April 2024.
America's Transportation Awards 